Opening of the Paris Métro Line 1

July 30, 1900 marked the public opening of Line 1 of the Paris Métro, France's first underground railway. Designed by engineer Fulgence Bienvenüe, the 8.5-mile line featured 18 stations and electric multiple-unit trains built by Thomson-Houston. It was built to serve the 1900 Exposition Universelle, easing surface congestion in the growing capital. The project overcame challenges like tunneling under the Seine and historic districts. Its success spurred rapid expansion of the Métro network, transforming urban mobility and inspiring subway systems worldwide with its Art Nouveau entrances by Hector Guimard.